Hate Crimes Policy

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Hate crimes are criminal acts or attempted criminal acts against an individual or group of individuals
because of their actual or perceived race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin,
sexual orientation, gender, or disability. Because they are targeted for who they
are, victims of hate crimes continue to feel threatened long after an attack. These
crimes victimize everyone – individuals and our entire community.

Some hate-motivated offenses do not rise to the level of a crime that can be charged
in court. These acts are called hate incidents. Although they may not meet the definition of a crime, they leave individuals feeling
victimized and can escalate into criminal behavior.

Free speech is protected by the United States Constitution and is not a hate crime.
However, speech that carries a credible threat of violence against an individual or
group of people is criminal.

Hate crimes and discrimination are violations of both California State University
and San José State University policies. San José State University is committed to creating an atmosphere in which all persons
and groups can work and study free of unlawful discrimination. For more information
on student discrimination and harassment complaints visit Student Discrimination & Harassment Complaints and Chancellor Executive Order 1074.

If you are a victim or witness of a hate crime, it is important that you report it
to law enforcement. To report a hate crime, please call 9-1-1 or dial 4-2222 from
any on campus phone or dial 408-924-2222 from any phone.